Nyungwe speakers of Mozambique

Local school director stated: “It isn’t just a schoolbook; it’s the Bible. We like the Bible!”

But we are citizens of heaven, where the Lord Jesus Christ lives. And we are eagerly waiting for him to return as our Savior. (Philippians 3:20, NLT)

Most of the Nyungwe speakers live in Northwest Tete Province near the Zambezi River Basin. Two large neighboring people groups, Chewa and Shona, have Bibles. But Nyungwe is Tete’s dominant language, with Portuguese used for wider communication. Those who live outside the capital, however, speak little Portuguese. Approximately 30 percent of the Nyungwe claim to be Catholic. About 40 percent claim to be evangelicals, although 10 percent or fewer are thought to be actively following Christ.

Local churches, missions groups and The Seed Company have plans to produce what is called a “Growing Bible,” where translators complete a large selection of Scriptures. Then, scores of booklets are immediately printed for churches to distribute. Audio recordings of the “Growing Bible” will complement the booklets. While literacy programs are in full swing here, many also need to hear Scriptures read aloud to fully grasp their meaning. Scripture recordings are a big hit in many oral cultures.

  • The published book of Mark was offered was offered to the director of the local school for the fourth grade reading class. He reported: “They read the books in class. The teachers even take the books home to read to their neighbors. It isn’t just a schoolbook; it’s the Bible. We like the Bible! You learn good things from it.” Praise the Lord for the hunger for His Word!
  • Team checking and testing continue on the book of Exodus. Also ahead is the consultant check. Though much of the current focus is on these Old Testament books, the New Testament books of John and Ephesians are draw¬ing ever closer to being published. Thank God for the continued progress.
  • Thank the Lord for the sustained interest in the published book of Mark and for the impact the heart-language Scriptures are having on the community.
  • Pray that God will open doors for the project to be officially registered in a timely manner. Pray too that the team will be able to find a site for their office.

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